Delhi has produced some of the biggest gems when it comes to arts, entertainment or even academics. From Ghalib to Pervez Musharraf and Khushwant Singh, the land has mothered hundreds of illustrious personalities and a few of them have gone on to make a name and place for themselves in this world brimming with billions!

But here we’ve got for you a long list of celebrities who have carved a niche for themselves in the arts and entertainment industry, but whose Delhi origins are lesser known. Here’s a list of celebrities we bet you didn't know hail from saadi dilli!

Nandita Das

An actress, director, writer, speaker, playwright and chairperson of the Children’s Film Society of India, she is an inspiration! Although born in Mumbai, she was largely brought up and educated in Delhi. A celebrated alumni, she completed her Bachelors in Geography from Miranda House and Master of Social Work degree from the Delhi School of Social Work, both affiliated with Delhi University. She pioneered a critical discussion on Indian society's obsession with fair skin and has been bringing positive changes to young lives through her enlightening statements!

Saif Ali Khan

This one was a shocker! Who knew that the Nawab of Pataudi, with an active film career in Mumbai was actually born in Delhi. Before joining tinsel town, he even worked for an advertising firm in Delhi for two months. Many of his films showcase the beautiful city of Delhi but who would have guessed he had roots in the city?! His upcoming projects include Kaalakandi, Baazaar and the Indian remake of the movie Chef.

Shahid Kapoor

We all know about the big hype around his wife being from Delhi. But guess what! Shahid hails from the city too! He was born in Delhi and continued to stay here with his mother and maternal grandparents up till the age of ten. He even portrayed the role of a Delhi boy in his hit movie, Vivah. He will next be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s upcoming magnum opus Padmavati.

Kunal Nayyar

We all know him as the adorable Raj from the popular American sitcom The Big Bang Theory. Born in London, Kunal was brought up in Delhi, where his parents reside currently. He attended the famous St. Columba’s School and even played baddy for the school team. His book on his career journey, Yes, My Accent is Real includes many tales from his time in Delhi. We bet this one surprised you!

Sunidhi Chauhan

Here’s another star who is making Delhi proud. One of Bollywood’s leading playback singer, Sunidhi Chauhan was born in Delhi. She attended the Greenway Modern School and stayed with her family in Dilshad Garden. Early in her childhood she performed at competitions and local gatherings before moving to Mumbai at the age of 11. Another export from Delhi, making it big in Mumbai!

Gursimran Khamba

Now, we’re sure that you did not know him to be a Dilli ka Munda. Stand up comedian and writer, Gursimran Khamba was born in Delhi. He started his early career in Delhi as a blogger. Later he co-founded India’s pioneering Stand-up comedy company, All India Bakchod (AIB). The company has a huge nation-wide following. Their content is witty, contemporary, satirical and absolutely hilarious!

Chetan Bhagat

Popular writer, Chetan Bhagat is yet another celebrity with his roots in Delhi. He was born in Delhi and completed his education from the Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan. He then received his degree in mechanical engineering from the prestigious, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. His novels are often feature the city as an important element to the narrative.

Abish Mathew

You've laughed at his jokes and antics but little did you know that this rib-tickler also hails from Delhi. He was born in Noida and is an alumni of the University of Delhi. Popular for his funny original songs, sketches and online videos, his brand of comedy is unique and refreshing. He also collaborates regularly with leading comedy companies like All India Bakchod and East India Comedy, among others.

Suraj Sharma

Remember him from Life of Pi? Or closer home, from the recent Bollywood movie, Phillauri? Yes, actor Suraj Sharma also hails from saadi Dilli. He’s made a name for himself internationally and has won many accolades and gathered much acclaim. Born in Delhi, Suraj studied at the Sardar Patel Vidyalaya and later joined St. Stephens College, Delhi University for his higher studies.

Mallika Dua

One of the leading comics in the popular stand-up comedy genre, Mallika Dua’s origins lie in the capital. Schooled at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, her famous comedic quips and videos are known to reflect the style of Delhi and its infamous Punjabis. She continually collaborates with AIB and has a huge social media following and presence.

Surprised much? So were we. So, the next time you come across a conversation that questions Delhi’s creative potential, show off these super cool celebrities. Mumbai may have all the glitz and the glamour of the industry but stars from Delhi shine there too!